A Cadillac is a popular vehicle originally manufactured in the United States by the Henry Ford Company but is now manufactured by General Motors. The 1998 Cadillac is considered a luxury sedan. There were five different Cadillac's manufactured in 1998: Catera, Concours, d'Elegance, Deville, and Seville. Just like any vehicle, a 1998 Cadillac may have trouble starting. Figuring out or "troubleshooting" the reason a 1998 Cadillac won't start, requires several different steps.
Call Cadillac's toll free number or check their website to find out if there are any recalls or problems with the vehicle. You should get any recalls taken care of, especially those that effect whether or not the car will start. Make sure Cadillac has your name and address on record as the current owner so they can send you recall notices.
Check the condition your car battery if your 1998 Cadillac won't start. When you turn the key in the ignition, do the lights on the dash turn on? If they do not, then the battery may be the problem. Open the hood of the car. Look at the sticker on the battery to see when you bought it. A battery may not last more than 2 or 3 years. Brush off any corrosion from the battery posts with a wire bristle brush. Check the battery connections and make sure they are secure. If the battery is fairly new you can recharge it.
Take your battery to an auto parts store or mechanic to have them test it to see if the battery has any life left. They will hook it up to a battery tester that will tell you how much power is left in the battery and if it can be re-charged. If it can't, buy a new battery.
Turn the ignition key and listen for the sound of the engine turning over. If there is no sound at all, your battery is probably fine, but there may be a problem in the ignition itself. If you hear only a clicking noise, it could indicate there is a problem with the starter. If you hear a chugging or knocking noise in the engine, there may be a leak or blockage in the fuel line, fuel filter or fuel pump. Problems with the starter or fuel system will require a mechanic to repair.
Check your fuel levels. A Cadillac will not start if there is no gasoline in the tank. Check the fuel gauge on the dashboard to see the gasoline level. It is possible that the fuel gauge can be incorrect or not working if the car has a computer or electrical problem. If this is the case, take your car in for repair.
